It is found primarily in the skeletal, heart muscle and brain of most vertebrates and some invertebrates.
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Its synthesis is catalyzed by the enzyme carnosine synthase; a peptidase designated carnosinase is in turn responsible for its hydrolysis. Carnosine has a role in free radical scavenging and has confirmed antioxidant properties. In addition, it inhibits glycation, cell proliferation, has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. In particular, intensive research has been devoted to the detailed characterisation of the relationship of carnosine to many types of diseases, e.g.neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, autism), kidney disease, diabetes or ischaemia. The therapeutic potential of carnosine is therefore very often tested in various animal models or diseased patients. The aim of this review article is to summarize the current scientific knowledge about carnosine, its function and its potential applications in the treatment of various diseases. The paper also discusses the importance of serum and tissue carnosinases, the enzymes responsible for the degradation of carnosine to β-alanine and L-histidine.
[article_image : left : 1 : Medical Horizon 6/2015]
Collective of authors: RNDr.Jana Bellová, PhD., doc.MUDr.Ing.RNDr.Peter Celec, PhD., MPH
Carnosine Extra, Carnosine, Carnosine, L-Carnosine